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You entered into a meal with intention. You were mindful during the practice of eating. You chewed your food, savored each bite, and swallowed with satisfaction. Can you be dismissed now?
Nope.
Why Digestion Doesn’t End When You Put the Fork Down
Did you know it can take six to eight hours for food to pass through your stomach and small intestine? This process can take even longer if your digestion is sluggish or blocked.
Your Grandpa might have said, “It’s time for my evening constitutional!”—a euphemism for going #2, which often meant taking a walk. This phrase harks back to the days of outhouses that you had to walk to. Even today, going for a walk after a meal (whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner) is a great idea, even if you don’t have an outhouse to visit!
The Benefits of Post-Meal Walks
Speeds Up Digestion: A few studies have shown that “postprandial” (after dinner) walks can help speed up digestion.
Provides Relaxation: Walking after a meal is not just about aiding digestion. It’s also a relaxing activity, giving you time to reflect on your day and unwind.
A Simple Habit with Big Benefits
Taking a walk after a meal is something easy you can do for yourself. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference in how you feel.
“I work and travel a lot, and was really struggling to find the right information to get me into a framework that reduced inflammation and made me feel generally better. HBH worked through conversations and looking at hard data to create a program for me to follow. I saw and felt results immediately. Most importantly, HBH has armed me with great information that I will continue to practice, as the results speak for themselves…” — Jacob S.
EATING HYGIENE TIP #8
Work a daily walk into your routine whenever you can, ideally a postprandial evening constitutional. Even if you’re just walking to the corner store or the mailbox, get outside, breathe some fresh air, limber up your limbs, and wind down your day.
